8/10

Throughout the early 2010s, London-based troubadours Palma Violets were greeted as one of the more exciting bands to emerge on the scene in years. But after a pair of highly-praised but underperforming studio albums, the band decided to call it quits in 2018, leaving a cult fanbase reeling at the potential that could have been. But after a few years away, original members Sam Fryer, Will Doyle, and Pete Mayhew teamed up with The Big Moon’s Celia Archer and guitarist Adam Brown to unveil Gently Tender, a band that feels like the logical progression of where Palma Violets should have gone.

After spending the last couple of years delivering warm and embracing offerings, they have now shared their long-awaited debut studio album 'Take Hold Of Your Promise!', a record that builds upon their vibrant legacy to date. While very much following a more folk-inspired and atmospheric direction this time around, Gently Tender are showcasing themselves as a far more adventurous outfit. No longer relying on big and blistering riffs to make an impact, the smooth and heartfelt emotion riding throughout this new collection makes for wonderfully enticing listening and marks the beginning of something very special indeed.

From the start, Gently Tender seem to be yearning for something broader and more expansive within their sound, and 'Take Hold Of Your Promise!' looks to deliver that as often as possible. With more freedom within their songwriting and aesthetic from start to finish, they have unveiled a magical and wondrous effort that will no doubt revive their luxurious ideals.